Senator Ali Ndume has declared that no ransom will be paid to Boko Haram insurgents, as the group’s 72-hour ultimatum over abducted villagers in Borno State expires.

Ndume maintained that the Federal Government must not succumb to pressure from terrorists, despite growing concerns over the safety of the victims.

The abduction, which occurred in Muoshi village in early March, initially sparked fears that over 500 people had been taken. However, the figure was later confirmed at 416 victims, many of them women and children, leaving hundreds of families in distress.

Speaking during an interview, the lawmaker described the incident as shocking and devastating, noting that the victims are his constituents.

“It was unbelievable, shocking, but it is true. These are my people, from my local government, and it’s devastating for the community,” he said.

Ndume also raised concerns about the security situation in the area, noting that the affected village is located about 12 kilometres from the Maiduguri-Mubi road, a major route.

Tension escalated after Boko Haram released a video threatening to relocate the captives if its demands were not met within 72 hours.

“If our demands are not met, we will move these victims, including women and children, to different locations… you may never see them again,” the insurgents warned.

Reacting, Ndume urged calm, stressing that the victims are innocent civilians, including both Christians and Muslims.

“The captives are innocent civilians, both Christians and Muslims,” he said, dismissing claims of targeted religious killings in the area.

On the issue of ransom, the senator reiterated his stance, warning that paying terrorists would only embolden further attacks.

“I stand with the government on this: we will not pay ransom,” he stated.

Despite the firm position, Ndume assured that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the victims, adding that he has been in contact with security agencies and key stakeholders handling the situation.

“I’ve talked to various security agencies and those that matter, and they are working on it,” he said.

He, however, cautioned against excessive public discourse on the matter, noting that it could compromise security operations.

“I don’t think this conversation should extend to this level, because it’s a security matter. The terrorists or insurgents even have more information than you think,” he added.

Ndume further revealed that intermediaries are engaging the insurgents, stressing that the ultimatum should not be seen as final as dialogue channels remain open.